Will Cutler be on short leash Sunday?

Bears senior writer Larry Mayer discusses whether Jay Cutler will be replaced Sunday if he struggles early, first-round picks on the Bears roster and if the Bears practiced outside this week.

Wondering about a player, a past game or another issue involving the Bears? Senior writer Larry Mayer answers a variety of email questions from fans on ChicagoBears.com.

Do you think Marc Trestman will replace Jay Cutler with Josh McCown in the second half Sunday in Cleveland if Cutler looks rusty early in the game?

Dan S.Raleigh, North Carolina

When asked that question by a reporter this week, coach Marc Trestman responded by saying: "We plan on [Jay Cutler] playing and playing well. Those situations come up game-by-game with anybody. But I wouldn't go near that one other than the fact that I expect Jay to play efficiently and play well and that's why he's going to be [starting]." In my opinion, I would be very surprised if Jay Cutler gets pulled for Josh McCown against the Browns for any reason other than an injury. It's clear that the Bears are committed to Cutler as their starting quarterback and aren't going to waver from that after one half or so of football even if Cutler looks rusty early in Cleveland.

How many first-round draft picks do the Bears have on their roster?

Joe K.Long Beach, California

There are four first-round picks on the Bears' 53-man roster. Defensive end Shea McClellin (2012) and guard Kyle Long (2013) were drafted by the Bears, while quarterback Jay Cutler (2006) and defensive end Julius Peppers (2002) were chosen by the Broncos and Panthers, respectively. A fifth first-round pick, linebacker D.J. Williams, is on injured reserve. He entered the NFL with the Broncos in 2004.

I know a lot was made about the Bears practicing outside a few times last week before beating the Cowboys in frigid conditions Monday night. Did they practice outside this week too?

Ron G.Indiana

The Bears worked out inside the Walter Payton Center Thursday before practicing outside in the elements Friday. With the temperature in the upper 20s, coach Marc Trestman joked that it was "balmy" compared to the conditions last week at practice and for the Monday night game. The Weather Channel forecast for Cleveland on Sunday is a high of 27 degrees with winds out of the west at 17 miles per hour and a 30 percent chance of snow.